LI Restaurants That Feel Like a Tropical Vacation

It’s hard to beat lounging by a palm tree with toes in the sand and a frozen drink in hand. But for those not jetting to the Caribbean anytime soon, there are several Long Island outdoor restaurants offering the opportunity for a mini escape. Some have scenic waterfront views while others feature decor reminiscent of your favorite summer destination. Head over to any of these five restaurants to get your tropical fix.

The Bayville restaurant, bar and lounge is steps away from the water, giving guests the opportunity to feel like they’re having a day at the beach. Floating sculptures of fish chasing squid, large white umbrellas and palm trees also evoke a tropical vibe. The signature drinks don’t hurt either with options like the Cocotini made with Stoli Vanilla Vodka, Malibu Coconut Rum, pineapple juice with honey and toasted coconut flakes on the rim. The seafood options on the menu like lobster sliders, sesame crusted salmon and East Coast clams are another plus. Click to go

Flynn’s, Fire Island

Any trip to Fire Island feels like a mini escape, especially when a visit to this staple is included. Opened in 1937, Flynn’s is known for its waterfront dining with options including crispy calamari, baked clams and pan-seared sea scallops. There’s also the lively summer parties, including a reggae dance party with live music, which brings out a festive crowd. The white walls and furniture of the same color, hanging plants and an outside deck overlooking the water are a few more subtle reminders of a resort vacation. Click to go

Rumba, Hampton Bays

image: facebook.com/rumbaislandcuisine

Rachel and David Hersh created Rumba with the hopes it would transport customers “to a sun warmed island.” Since they spent a lot of time in the Caribbean, the couple had an idea of how to make that possible. There’s island-inspired food like Dominican ribs and jerk chicken along with tropical adult beverages including a mango passion fruit martini and Caribbean rum punch. Located on the waterfront, diners can enjoy food outdoors overlooking the water or indoors where colorful decor and a portrait of Jamaican legend Bob Marley make it easy to forget you haven’t left Long Island. Click to go

Besito, Roslyn, Huntington and West Islip

image: facebook.com/besitomexican

If Facebook friends are making you jealous with vacation photos of Mexico, head to Besito to forget you’re not there. The authentic menu that includes guacamole made tableside, iron skillet tacos with melted Chihuahua cheese and fish tacos with jalapeño-citrus salsa won’t disappoint. The elegant decor has hints of Mexican inspiration with colorful patterns, dark wood furnishings and eye-catching artwork. At the end of every meal, diners are also given worry dolls. These tiny dolls dressed in traditional Mayan clothing originated generations ago in Central America and are meant to take troubles away. Click to go

RHUM, Patchogue

image: facebook.com/rhumpatchogue

The same owners of the aforementioned Rumba decided to also bring the island vibes to Patchogue with this new addition. Just take a look at the airy rooftop designed wooden accents, hanging benches and touches of greenery. The Caribbean-inspired food menu, of course, also adds to the vibes with a Barbados jerk chicken salad and jerk chicken tacos. Pair the food with a piña colada or coconut mojito for the ultimate vacation reminder. Click to go